Muriel “Merle” Joy Smith

Muriel “Merle” Joy Smith was born July 17, 1935 in Gonzales to Henry B. Lewis any Phyllis Louise Darden Lewis. She attended Edwards High School. Sister Muriel Smith accepted Christ at an early age and was a member of the Providence Missionary Baptist Church. She was a diligent worker for the Lord and served on many committees and auxiliaries which included singing in the Heavenly Choir and was supervisor of the kitchen.

Merle had many employments. Her last employer was David and Debbie Culak as a caregiver for their two daughters, D’lane and Deana who Merle loved as her own.

Merle married Fred Lynn Smith, Sr. on Aug. 4, 1952. To this union they were blessed with 15 children.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Henry B. Lewis and Phyllis Darden Lewis; husband, Fred Smith, Sr.; sons, Bryant K. Smith, Sr. and Gregory A. Smith; grandchildren, Frederick Smith, Kevin Timmons, Jr., Justin Wilson and Felisha Smith; great-grandson, Tylon Smith and five sisters and four brothers.

She leaves to cherish her memory her 13 children, Fred Smith, Jr. (Melba), Ruby Tucy (David), Robert Smith (Doris) of Seguin, James Smith, Sr. (Norma) of San Antonio, Kenneth Smith, Sr., Steven Smith, Sr. (Linda), Jacelyn Jones, Berry Smith (Melba), Sharon Redmond (Roosevelt) of Houston, Donna Timmons (Kevin), Stephanie Grant (Russell), Bridgett Smith and Kimberly Smith (Nathan); 42 grandchildren, 50 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and many friends.

Services will be held Saturday, April 4 at 11 a.m. at Providence Baptist Church, 1021 St. Andrew Street in Gonzales with the Rev. L. Clack officiating.